India’s Four Most Iconic Rath Yatras

There’s something very magical about witnessing a Rath Yatra in India. The sheer sight of tall wooden chariots rolling down the streets, pulled by lakhs of hands in prayer, evokes a powerful mix of awe, emotion, and belonging. It’s more than just a festival, it’s an experience that stirs your spirit. People standing barefoot on the scorching ground of Puri once, palms folded, heart racing, as the chariot of Lord Jagannath inched closer.

The beating of drums, conch shells blowing, chants of “Jai Jagannath!” echoing in the air it’s a moment that stays with you forever.

But Puri isn’t the only place where divinity rolls on wheels. Across India, Rath Yatras tell stories of gods and devotees, of traditions passed down centuries. Here are four of the most soul-stirring ones you should know.

1. Puri Rath Yatra, Odisha

Obviously the Grandest! Held in the coastal town of Puri, this Rath Yatra is the most iconic. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in massive chariots. Millions gather including pilgrims, curious travellers, and spiritual seekers. The energy is electric, and the belief is that even the touch of the rope brings blessings.

2. Ahmedabad Rath Yatra, Gujarat

Organised by the centuries-old Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s Rath Yatra is considered the second-largest after Puri. The procession, with ornately decorated elephants, akharas performing stunts, and bhajan singers on floats, winds its way through the city in a stunning display of devotion and cultural harmony. The streets are swept clean, and the city pauses for this moment of collective reverence.

3. Mahesh Rath Yatra, West Bengal

Nestled in Serampore, near Kolkata, the Mahesh Rath Yatra is the oldest in Bengal, with origins dating back to the 14th century. What sets it apart is its vintage charm, the 50-foot-tall wooden chariot, hand-carved and aged with history. Locals take immense pride in this heritage. The atmosphere is a beautiful blend of rural fair and religious ceremony, with folk songs and traditional sweets adding to the joy.

4. ISKCON Temple Rath Yatra, Kolkata

A more recent addition, but no less grand, ISKCON Kolkata’s Rath Yatra has grown into a city-wide spiritual carnival. It brings together people from all walks of life, transcending boundaries. The chariots pass through central Kolkata, as the air fills with kirtans and dancing devotees. What stands out is the inclusiveness, everyone is welcome to pull the chariot and feel part of something divine.

No matter where you are in India during Rath Yatra, if you find yourself near one, go. Not just to watch, but to feel. Let the chariot pass before your eyes, let the chants sink into your soul. Because in those fleeting moments of celebration, you won’t just see a god on a chariot—you might just find a piece of yourself.